What to Watch: ISU



As the week goes along I am feeling much more comfortable with this game than I did earlier in the week.  Some of their impressive defensive numbers (sacks) are inflated due to their non-conference schedule and game against SIU.  However, I still think they have a very good defense that will test the Jacks.

1. I'm really curious to see how our offensive line plays against a big and talented front seven for ISU.  The three down linemen for the Redbirds are as good as it gets at the FCS level.  The Jacks typically start out slow along the offensive line but get rolling as the game goes along.  Will they be able to do the same against the Redbirds?

2. What is Brock Spack going to throw at Keaton Heide?  Spack is considered to be one of the best coaches in the MVFC.  His defenses are always good and usually aggressive.  The 33 sacks that ISU has accumulated have come from all levels of the defense.  What will Spack do to confuse Heide and how will Heide, and Coach Eck, respond.  I'm really curious about this.

3. Can the Jacks hold James Robinson under 75 yards?  I think if they do, they win easily.  If Robinson can get rolling it makes the job of quarterback Brady Davis a lot easier.  The Jacks are allowing just 128 yards per game rushing but have allowed a few breakaway rushing touchdowns in recent weeks.  They can't let this happen against Robinson.

4. I really want to see the Jacks play a complete game.  Good offense.  Good defense.  Solid special teams.  No turnovers.  No pre-snap penalties.  We haven't seen it yet this year. How about this week!

5. The Wild Rabbit.  Coach Eck gave us a peek of the offense with Pierre at QB. I'm excited to see what else we can do off of it.  Ben and Brendan did a great job detailing in the podcast what effect Cade streaking across the formation has on the defense. I think there is still more that can be done off of it.  Lots of variances on motions and lots of weapons on the field that need to be accounted for. 

6. How do Marshon Harris and Wes Genant fit in with the 2019 version of the Jacks?  They were injured before the season started.  Thanks to the four-game red-shirt rule they can play in four games and still maintain their eligibility.  Every indicator has been given this week that they are returning.  I'm excited to see their infusion of experience and talent into an already very good Jackrabbit roster.

I'm up-ing my prediction.

Jacks 28
ISU 10

Go Jacks!
Matt 

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